AUGUST 2, 1941

EASTPORT, Maine, Friday—World events seem to be moving in more satisfactory fashion these days. One
cannot help hoping that sometime before long we may read that people who once thought
that war was the only way to bring about satisfactory solutions to world difficulties
may have reached the conclusion that there are possibilities of mutual cooperation.
Acceptance of the fact that we are dependent upon each other, not only as individuals
but as nations, for our well-being and that the ultimate solution of world problems
will require a willingness to agree to this precept, seems the first step forward
toward a peaceful world.

In these closing days of the International Student Service Institute here, the question
of the way to make Democracy meet not only our own needs, but world needs, has been
discussed by Dr. Eagleton and the students. Much interest and real thinking on the
problem, I hope, will result.

I have, of course, spent a very short time with this group of young people and I have
nothing whatsoever to do with the running of the institute. But one finds oneself
receiving certain impressions. I have found first that after five weeks of hard work
there is no real lessening of interest in the study of what Democracy means and of
how, as individuals, we can function to make Democracy meet the needs of all the people.

Dr. Neilson has made a deep impression on all of us. Perhaps the students who have
been under his direction at Smith College will understand what I mean when I say that
these young men and women have sensed the benediction of his presence. It is character
that really gets across to other people and there has been a recognition of the fineness
and the gentleness of a human being who has lived up to his ideals and used his abilities
to the utmost. Example is far better than precept.

In addition, I think Mr. Joseph Lash, who has really done the day-by-day management
of detail and curriculum on which hangs much of the success of an undertaking such
as this, has gained the respect and the affectionate cooperation of all the young
people under his care in a way which is only possible when there is realization of
a fine spirit. People grow through experiences, if they meet life honestly and courageously.
This is how character is built and young people recognize this ability to grow in
those with whom they come in contact.

I think the students will leave here tomorrow with the feeling that they have gained
something enduring from their association with Dr. Neilson and Mr. Lash which will
remain an inspiration for better living in their own lives.